LG G3 revisited: the US version is here

We’ve already fallen for the G3, which we noted in our review of the device. Now that we’ve got our hands on the domestic version, is it still the device we spoke so highly of? Have things changed, or did we just get one that was meant for this market? We go hands-on — again — to find out.

From the start, some hardware tweaks are present, but the differences are purely regional. Phones in Asian markets sometimes have pull-out antennae, and the Korean version of the G3 was no different. That’s clearly gone, but the rest checks out as we left it. Same battery, same weight, same — well, everything.

The software is untouched, save for the added apps being switched up. With Verizon, you get a slew of apps (which can be removed!) slapped in, which is average fare for any carrier device. Slacker Radio, Clash of Clans, and hotels.com are new additions, but not unwelcome ones.

The G3 runs Android 4.4.2 when you unleash it, and has a Snapdragon 801 processor. The 32GB storage is not expandable, and 3GB RAM will keep you going strong. The 13mp rear camera is fantastic, and the 3,000mAh battery is a welcome sight.

About that battery — is the life as good as we remembered? Almost. We can’t say we’re getting the same battery life that had us so excited last time, but in our testing we could get through a full day — and into the next — with a single charge, and “normal” use. While ”normal” can be tough to pin down, ours was messaging, light web surfing, email, some social browsing, and media.

At the end of the day, it’s still tough to find fault with the G3. It’s big, beautiful, and can last the day. The screen is fantastic, and the build is solid. LG’s skin is still one we like, and the rear power/volume buttons are growing on us. It’s the same device we liked in our review, so we can once again suggest you give it a strong consideration when you’re ready for a new Android handset.